Comforter Funeral Home

04/24/2026

Many families include funeral readings to personalize a loved one's funeral service, but what passages should you choose? If you'd like a little help, check out this list of 10 literary readings to consider!

Literary readings can add personalization and dimension to any funeral or memorial service. Check out this list of options to consider!

04/23/2026

Stephen A. Mayes

Stephen A. Mayes, affectionately known as “Papa” to those who loved him best, passed away on April 18, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family, at the age of 83 in Panama City, Florida.

Born on April 7, 1943, in Shenandoah, Iowa to Kenneth and Ethel Mayes, Stephen lived life grounded in love, honor, and loyalty. He was known for his wisdom, dry humor, and unconditional love. These qualities left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Stephen proudly served his country in the United States Army, retiring as a Master Sergeant. His dedication, strength, and leadership defined both his military career and his life at home.

“Papa” was more than a nickname; it was a role he embraced wholeheartedly. Papa’s love was constant and deeply felt. Whether sharing a glass of bourbon, playing a game of cards, or baking in the kitchen, he created memories that will be cherished.

Stephen lived life to the fullest. He was an avid white-water paddler and enjoyed the camaraderie of the Tennessee Valley Canoe Club for many years. He loved motorcycles, especially his Harley Davidson’s. He also enjoyed traveling and exploring the world.

Stephen is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Diane; his, children Tracy Bruce (Jason Bridges) and Marc Mayes (Erica Libby); his cherished grandchildren, Katheryn Bruce, Allison Bruce, Olivia Wichman Mayes, and Sawyer Wichman Mayes; those he loved as his own grandchildren, JJ Bridges, Sissy Bridges, and Emmet Pitts; and his sister Tomi Cambron (Phil). Stephen also leaves behind dear friends: David and Joyce Duke (Julie Beth), Alison Falinski, Doug and Linda Graydon, and Brett and Jamie Myers (Madison & Reilly) who were like family, along with many other cherished family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Camp Kudzu (www.campkudzu.org), a camp for children living with Type 1 Diabetes, including his granddaughters Katheryn and Olivia.

Celebrations of life will be held in Port St Joe, Florida and Chattanooga, Tennessee. Details will be shared soon.

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.

View Stephen A. Mayes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/22/2026

Grab your umbrella and reminisce with these exciting Singin' in the Rain facts! Read this article for some shocking reveals about this classic movie.

The Oscar-nominated musical is also a history lesson about Hollywood in the late 1920s, when silent pictures were giving way to talkies.

04/20/2026

04/17/2026

If you are a veteran, then you may be eligible for burial in a national cemetery - free of charge! Check out this list of national cemeteries across the United States and then chat with a funeral director about your options and how to plan ahead for your funeral wishes as a veteran.

Are you interested in burial or inurnment at a national cemetery? Check out this list of national cemeteries and find one to fit your needs.

04/16/2026

Carlene W. Parker

Carlene W. Parker, a devoted community member and celebrated artist known for her vibrant tie-dye creations, joined her daughter Alicia in heaven on Monday, April 13, 2026, in Port St. Joe, Florida, at the age of 77. Born Carlene Willey on March 17, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, she lived a life rich in dedication to both family and community.

Prior to residing in Port St. Joe for the past two decades, Carlene made her home in Atlanta, Georgia. A significant chapter of Carlene’s life was deeply shaped by the memory of her daughter, Alicia Parker, who succumbed to cancer in 1985. In Alicia’s honor, Carlene, alongside her husband John L. Parker III, committed 27 years of service at Camp Sunshine in Madison, Georgia—a summer camp dedicated to children battling cancer. Her vibrant tie-dye art became a symbolic and uplifting presence at the camp, providing comfort and joy to many children and families during difficult time and she was known as "The Tie Dye Lady".

After moving to Gulf County, Florida she became an original founding member of the Port St. Joe Salt Air Farmers Market, actively contributing to its establishment and growth.

Carlene's enthusiasm extended beyond her artistic talents; she had a particular fondness for dragonflies, appreciating their delicate beauty and symbolism. Her bright, colorful tie dye artwork and her compassionate spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew her and will be sorely missed.

She is survived by her husband, John L. Parker III, and her two sisters, Terry Standish and Missy Gleneck.

Carlene is preceded in death by her parents, Carl R. Willey and Hazel Reisinger Willey, and her beloved daughter, Alicia Parker, who she has now joined in eternal peace.

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.

View Carlene W. Parker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/15/2026

Plan your summer adventures without breaking the bank! This fun guide is packed full of unique experiences you can try for a discount (or free!). Click below to learn more.

From unique festivals to one-of-a-kind concerts, older adults can have fun and enrich their lives without breaking the bank. Here's your ultimate guide to free museums, concerts, and events.

04/13/2026

Chester Derwin Rowland

Chester Derwin Rowland, age 61, a lifelong native of Apalachicola, Florida, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Panama City, Florida. Born on April 27, 1964, Mr. Rowland was a dedicated and hardworking individual whose life was deeply intertwined with the waters of the Gulf Coast.

A graduate of Apalachicola High School, Chester's early career included various roles in construction. However, it was on the water that he truly found his calling. He spent the majority of his life as a commercial fisherman, specializing in oystering, sh*****ng, and fishing.

Outside of his professional life, Chester was an avid hunter and fisherman, embracing the outdoors with enthusiasm. Above all, his favorite pastime was spending quality time with and caring for his beloved grandsons and a host of nieces and nephews.

Chester is survived by his mother, Louise Rowland, of Apalachicola, Florida; his wife of 32 years, Rose Rowland, also of Apalachicola; his daughter, Jackie Rowland, residing in Apalachicola; and his stepson, Robert Switzer, of Quincy, Florida. He is further survived by two brothers, Jeff Rowland and Victor Rowland (Lisa), and two sisters, Belinda Cassidy (Michael) and Amy Hersey (Matt), all of Apalachicola. His grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart, include RJ Switzer, Landon Switzer, Khayden Smith, Collin Smith, and Oakley Smith. Chester was preceded in death by his father, William C. Rowland.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time at First Assembly of God - Apalachicola and the funeral will begin at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Immediately following, interment will take place at Magnolia Cemetery in Apalachicola.

View Chester Derwin Rowland's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/13/2026

Coleman Lamar Griffin

Coleman Lamar Griffin age 83 of Port St. Joe, Florida entered into eternal on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay in Panama City, Florida. He was born on June 29, 1942 in Port St. Joe, Florida.

Services will be held at Zion Fair Baptist Church in Port St. Joe, Florida on Saturday, April 18, 2026 with the viewing from 10:00 A.M. Eastern Time until 10:45 A.M Eastern Time and the funeral starting at 11:00 A.M. Eastern Time. The committal service will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Port St. Joe, Florida.

A full obituary is forthcoming.

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida.

View Coleman Lamar Griffin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/11/2026

Jay A. Gillespie

Jay A. Gillespie, born on November 21, 1941, in Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Panama City, Florida at the age of 84. Raised on a family farm in Kansas, Jay’s early life was rooted in hard work and dedication, values he carried with him throughout his life. At the age of 18, he joined the United States Air Force, later transferring to the United States Navy, where he honorably served his country for over twenty years as an aircraft mechanic before retiring. His military career took him to numerous postings across the country and beyond.

In 1994, Jay settled in Eastpoint, Florida, embracing a life that balanced his love of family and the serene outdoors. He was known for his simple pleasures, such as fishing at the catfish pond and maintaining his yard with meticulous care, often seen mowing the grass himself.

Jay’s greatest pride was his family. He cherished spending time with his loved ones and had a special affection for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often found with a baby in his lap. Surrounded by those who loved him, Jay was survived by one son John Gillespie; son-in-law, Mark Boon; sister, Shirley Early Gillespie; grandchildren Makayla Richardson (Stephen), Glen Richards Jr., Alysa Richards, Shayna Richards, Amber Boon, Jeremy Boon, Chad Boon, Kayla Richards, and Robert Richards. Always faithful, his little K-9 companion, “DOG,” was a beloved member of the household.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Gillespie and Mary Fitz Gillespie; his loving wife, Ada Gillespie; sons Robert Richards and Glen Richards; daughter Glenda Boon; and brother Earl Gillespie.

The visitation for Jay A. Gillespie will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time to 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time, followed immediately by the funeral service from 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time to 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time; both events will take place at Living Waters Assembly of God in Apalachicola, Florida with Pastor Scotty Lolley officiating. A private burial will take place at Eastpoint Cemetery

Jay A. Gillespie’s life was marked by service, devotion, and a quietly enduring spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will be treasured by all who had the privilege to know him.

View Jay A. Gillespie's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

Cremation continues to be a popular choice, but did you know there are now two forms available in many states? Read this blog to learn more about the differences between flame-based and water-based cremation!

Did you know there are two forms of cremation? Read this article to learn about the differences between water-based and flame-based cremation?